The sinking feeling of dropping your phone into water is a common panic-inducing moment, but there’s hope even in the face of this aquatic mishap. Quick action can often salvage your phone, and the expertise of a professional phone repair specialist can be a lifesaver. However, if immediate access to a specialist isn’t feasible, especially if the mishap occurs late at night, here are steps to mitigate damage and improve your phone’s chances of recovery:
Step 1 – Act Swiftly
Although modern phones are designed to be more water-resistant due to metal frames and sealed components, they’re not completely waterproof. Speed is of the essence in saving your phone. Water can short-circuit the device, while stagnant water leads to corrosion of internal components like circuits, coils, and resistors. Minerals, salt, chemicals, and dirt in the water can exacerbate these problems. Acting quickly is essential to prevent further damage.
Step 2 – Power Off Your Phone
If your phone is still operational, power it down immediately. Refrain from pressing any other buttons or attempting to use the phone, as this could worsen the damage. Turning the phone off halts electrical connections, which can be detrimental when the phone is wet.
Step 3 – Remove the Case and Dry the Phone
Take off any phone case and gently dry the exterior of the device using a microfiber cloth (paper towels can work if you lack a microfiber cloth). You can also sanitize the phone with a screen cleaner. When drying your phone, avoid rubbing it; instead, pat it carefully to absorb the moisture.
Step 4 – Extract SIM Cards and Accessories
Remove SIM cards, microSD cards, and accessories such as headphones and cords. If they remain undamaged, you might be able to use your SIM card in another device to maintain access to your stored data while your phone is undergoing repair.
Step 5 – Remove the Battery (if possible)
If your phone allows for it, take out the battery. Note that this isn’t possible with iPhones. In such cases, proceed with all the other recommended steps on how to address water damage, and then move on to the next step.
Step 6 – Elevate the Phone
It’s crucial to position the phone so that no water remains on any electronic components, which could lead to corrosion. This also addresses how to remove water from the charging port. Avoid laying your phone flat, and aim to get it to a mobile phone repair specialist as swiftly as possible.
What Not to Do When Your Phone Takes a Swim
Don’t rub your phone dry; gently pat it instead.
Avoid shaking the phone or blowing on it, as these actions might drive water deeper into the device.
If your phone is still on, refrain from using it and pressing buttons, as this could cause further harm.
Don’t employ electrical devices like hairdryers, microwaves, or vacuums to dry your phone.
Keep your phone away from extreme temperatures, such as the freezer or a radiator, as they can cause damage.
Don’t disassemble the phone beyond removing the battery, SIM card, and memory cards, as this could lead to additional harm or void your warranty.
The Rice Method: Not Recommended
A popular yet outdated method found across the internet suggests using uncooked rice to extract moisture from a phone. This method, however, isn’t advisable, especially for newer phone models. It may have temporarily worked for older devices with removable backs and batteries, but it’s ineffective for most modern phones. Even if your phone appears to function initially, it may succumb to damage caused by leftover minerals in the long run, leading to malfunctions weeks or months later. To ensure the best outcome, consult a professional phone repair specialist.
Trust the Experts for Phone Repair
When your phone falls victim to water damage, the best course of action is to seek professional assistance. Don’t gamble with unreliable DIY methods. A qualified phone repair specialist is your best bet to rescue your device and prevent long-term issues. Get your phone fixed by the experts.